2018 Talenti Brunello di Montalcino Piero, Tuscany

One of the standouts of the vintage, the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Piero starts out dark and understated in the glass, slowly coming to life with an array of dusty rose, dried strawberries, crushed plums, smoke and hints of fresh mint. It’s velvety-smooth and potent on the palate, showing admirable weight for the vintage, yet also refinement, as wild berry fruits are carried across a core of brisk acidity, and inner violet florals form toward the close. The 2018 finishes with a bitter tug of sour citrus and tart currants, yet it maintains a fresh personality, as grippy tannins linger around the perimeter of the palate, and hints of lavender slowly fade.

95 Points, Eric Guido /Vinous 

Bright ruby red, with garnet glints. Classic nose, ripe dark cherries, plums, blood oranges and cardamom. Discreet, rich, full of vivid, lovely ripe fruit, finely meshed tannins, with a juicy and long finish.

97 points falstaff.com

The nose is a coastal manor house, where the untamed sea air persistently intrudes on the domesticated aromas of vanilla and leather. The palate turns fruitier, with notes of cherry and strawberry, before salted dark chocolate explodes into a kaleidoscope of oranges on the finish, which is emphasized by strong tannins and acidity.

96 points wineenthusiast.com

Pretty hazelnut, dried flower and chocolate undertones to the raspberries and ripe cherries. Medium-bodied, deliciously open and succulent, framed by tight-grained tannins, with excellent drinkability too. Fresh and poised at the finish with tension. Drink or hold.

94 points jamessuckling.com

Talenti Brunello di Montalcino Piero from Tuscany is a remarkable expression of one of Italy’s most iconic wines. Crafted from the Sangiovese grape, the foundation of Brunello di Montalcino, this wine is a true testament to the exceptional quality and tradition of the Montalcino region. The "Piero" in the name refers to the founder, Piero Talenti, whose commitment to quality and sustainable viticulture has shaped the estate into one of the most respected producers in Tuscany. His wines are known for their finesse, structure, and the ability to capture the essence of Montalcino's unique terroir.

The estate’s vineyards are located on the southern slopes of Montalcino, where the combination of high altitudes, clay-limestone soils, and the perfect climate allows the Sangiovese grapes to ripen slowly, achieving full maturity while retaining the necessary acidity and tannin structure for aging. The winemaking process is traditional, with fermentation in stainless steel and aging in large oak barrels, allowing the wine to develop complexity without overpowering the fruit character.

In the glass, Talenti Brunello di Montalcino Piero displays a deep, rich ruby color that hints at its intensity and ageability. The nose is a complex bouquet of dark cherries, blackberries, and plums, interwoven with earthy notes of tobacco, leather, and a touch of dried herbs, all complemented by the subtle spice from oak aging. The wine exudes elegance, with a delicate perfume that invites further exploration.

On the palate, it’s full-bodied with a refined structure and balanced acidity. The tannins are firm yet smooth, providing the necessary backbone for a wine that has excellent aging potential. The fruit flavors are rich and concentrated, with black cherry and ripe plum taking the lead, while earthy and savory notes of tobacco, leather, and spice add layers of depth. The finish is long and persistent, with the fruit, tannins, and spice beautifully integrated. This is a wine that will evolve gracefully with age, becoming even more complex and nuanced over time.

Talenti Brunello di Montalcino Piero is an exceptional wine for pairing with hearty dishes. It is perfect with roasted meats like lamb or beef, game such as venison, or rich pasta dishes like pappardelle with wild boar ragù. It also pairs wonderfully with aged cheeses like Pecorino or Parmigiano-Reggiano, making it a versatile and elegant choice for both special occasions and refined dinners.